When the summer heat hits, it’s not just humans who suffer—our furry friends are at risk too. Dogs are especially vulnerable to heat stress and heatstroke due to their limited ability to cool themselves. Understanding how to help your dog stay cool during the hot months is crucial to their well-being.
In this guide, we’ll explore why cooling is vital for dogs, identify symptoms of overheating, and share the best cooling solutions available, including YMOAs products designed for ultimate comfort and protection.
🌡️ Why Cooling is Important for Dogs
Understanding Heat Stress in Dogs
Unlike humans, dogs do not have sweat glands distributed throughout their bodies. They primarily regulate temperature through panting and the sweat glands located on their paw pads. This makes them especially vulnerable to overheating, particularly large breeds, brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds, and older dogs (AVMA, 2023). According to research from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC), brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs are four times more likely to suffer from heatstroke compared to other breeds (RVC, 2023).
⚠️ Symptoms of Overheating
-
🚩 Excessive panting
-
🚩 Darkened tongue and gums
-
🚩 Lethargy and weakness
-
🚩 Vomiting or diarrhea
Recognizing these symptoms early can prevent more severe health risks. If you notice any of these signs, take immediate action to cool your dog down and consult a veterinarian if symptoms persist (VCA Hospitals, 2023).
💦 Best Cooling Solutions for Dogs
1. Hydration Tips
-
✅ Always provide fresh, cool water during summer months.
-
✅ Opt for multiple water bowls around the house.
-
✅ Use YMOAs portable folding bowls for trips and walks.
-
✅ Ensure water is accessible and clean at all times (AniCura Nederland, 2023).
2. Cooling Vests, Collars, and Towel Wraps
-
Breathable Cooling Vests: Perfect for long walks or hikes. These vests are designed to be soaked in water, and as the water evaporates, it cools the dog's body.
-
YMOAs Cooling Dog Collar: This collar is designed with built-in ice packs that can be pre-frozen, allowing you to simply attach it when heading outdoors. It provides instant cooling relief and is ideal for long walks or travel. Check it out here.
-
DIY Cooling Towel Wraps: Dampen a clean towel and wrap it around your dog's neck and belly. This method is cost-effective and simple, but remember to remove it after 30 minutes to avoid skin issues.
3. Frozen Treats & Cooling Snacks
-
Mix water or low-sodium broth with dog-friendly fruits.
-
Freeze them in molds for a refreshing snack.
-
Add small ice cubes to their water for extra refreshment.
4. Safe Water Play
-
Kiddie pools for splashing fun
-
Sprinklers or hose play (always supervised)
-
Dog-friendly beaches or lakes for safe swimming
🌿 Environmental Adjustments
Indoor Cooling Techniques
-
❄️ Use fans, air conditioning, or wet towels to maintain cool temperatures.
-
🪟 Install blackout curtains to reduce indoor heat buildup.
-
🛋️ Place wet towels in resting spots for added comfort.
Outdoor Adjustments
-
🕐 Walk your dog during cooler parts of the day—early morning or late evening.
-
🚧 Avoid hot pavement; always check with your hand before walking.
-
🌳 Ensure shaded resting areas with proper ventilation (RSPCA, 2023).
🚑 Emergency Cooling Measures
1️⃣ Move to a shaded area — Immediately take your dog out of direct sunlight.
2️⃣ Apply cool water — Use a damp cloth to wipe their belly, neck, and paws.
3️⃣ Increase ventilation — Use a fan or move to an air-conditioned room.
4️⃣ Hydrate gradually — Offer small sips of water, not ice-cold.
5️⃣ Consult a vet — If symptoms persist, seek emergency veterinary care.
🚫 What NOT to Do
-
❌ Never leave your dog in a parked car.
-
❌ Avoid walking on hot pavement or asphalt.
-
❌ Do not over-exercise your dog during peak heat.
-
❌ Shade alone is not enough—ground temperatures can still burn paws.
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I use ice-cold water to cool my dog down?
A: It's better to use cool or lukewarm water. Ice-cold water can cause shock to their system.
Q: How often should I rehydrate my dog during walks?
A: Ideally, every 15-20 minutes. Always observe signs of thirst or discomfort.
Q: Is it safe to use a wet towel on my dog all day?
A: No, prolonged moisture can lead to skin irritation. Use it in intervals of 20-30 minutes.
Q: Are YMOAs Cooling Collars safe for all breeds?
A: Yes, they are adjustable and safe for all breeds, especially for large and brachycephalic breeds.
References
-
American Veterinary Medical Association. (2023). Warm Weather Pet Safety. Retrieved from https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/warm-weather-pet-safety
-
AniCura Nederland. (2023). Oververhitting bij honden. Retrieved from https://www.anicura.nl/over-huisdieren/hond/kennisbank/oververhitting-hond/
-
Hall, E. J., Carter, A. J., Bradbury, J., Beard, S., Gilbert, S., Barfield, D., & O’Neill, D. G. (2020). Incidence and risk factors for heat-related illness (heatstroke) in UK dogs under primary veterinary care in 2016. Scientific Reports, 10(1), 9128. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-66015-8
-
Hall, E. J., Carter, A. J., Bradbury, J., Beard, S., Gilbert, S., Barfield, D., & O’Neill, D. G. (2023). Cooling Methods Used to Manage Heat-Related Illness in Dogs Presented to Primary Care Veterinary Practices during 2016–2018 in the UK. Veterinary Sciences, 10(7), 465. https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci10070465
-
PetMD. (2023). 10 Ways to Keep Your Dog Cool in the Summer. Retrieved from https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/evr_multi_10-ways-to-keep-your-dog-cool-in-the-summer
-
PETA. (2023). Report: Heat-Related Deaths of Dogs and Cats Double From Last Year. Retrieved from https://www.peta.org/media/news-releases/report-heat-related-deaths-of-dogs-and-cats-double-from-last-year-peta-declares-crisis/
-
ResearchGate. (n.d.). Comparison of Postexercise Cooling Methods in Working Dogs. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/331978215_Comparison_of_Postexercise_Cooling_Methods_in_Working_Dogs
-
Royal Veterinary College (RVC). (2023). The RVC urges owners of hot dogs to “cool first, transport second”. Retrieved from https://www.rvc.ac.uk/research/research-centres-and-facilities/veterinary-epidemiology-economics-and-public-health/news/new-research-from-the-rvc-suggests-human-heat-health-alerts-could-help-prevent-heatstroke-in-dogs
-
RSPCA. (2023). Hot Weather Advice for Dogs. Retrieved from https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/environment/hotweather
-
VCA Animal Hospitals. (2023). Heat Stroke in Dogs. Retrieved from https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/heat-stroke-in-dogs